The Great Sussex Way
Discover the Chichester District in West Sussex
Discover Chichester, the vibrant cathedral city and county capital of West Sussex. Immerse yourself in rich history with impressive Roman ruins and outstanding culture or explore the stunning countryside and rolling South Downs. Enjoy endless walking and cycling opportunities, charming towns and villages like Midhurst and Petworth, and the sparkling Sussex coast, home to beautiful beaches like West Wittering, East Wittering, Bracklesham Bay and Selsey.
Just over an hour from London and just under an hour from London Gatwick Airport, our stunning, sunny corner of Sussex is closer than you think!
The Great Sussex Way is here to help you find GREAT things to do in Chichester and the the surrounding area, read on for more ideas…
South Downs National Park
The South Downs National Park is one of the top West Sussex attractions encompassing majestic rolling hills, heathland, rivers, and more woodland that any other national park in England or Wales – including some of the most ancient forests in the country - making it a perfect playground for those who love the outdoors, whether that’s on two feet or on a bike. As well as epic walking trails including The South Downs Way, here you’ll find important habitats for wildlife, including rare species like the Adonis and Chalkhill Blue Butterflies.
West Wittering Beach
One of the South Coast’s best loved beaches, once you’ve experienced the golden sands of West Wittering beach between your toes it’s easy to see why. Long stretches of soft sand and shallow water make it perfect for families, while also offering an abundance of opportunities for adrenaline seekers to enjoy the waves. Often extremely busy in summer (we recommend booking parking to avoid disappointment), quieter spots can be found at neighbouring East Wittering or a little further along the coast at Selsey.
Goodwood
Goodwood, for many, is a name synonymous with incredible events like the Festival of Speed, the Qatar Goodwood Festival or the Goodwood Revival, which draw visitors from across the globe. The sporting country estate which covers 12,000 acres of stunning Sussex countryside is also home to a stylish Hotel and Spa, unforgettable dining experiences, golf courses, and the opportunity for high-energy adventures in the air, on the Motor Circuit and more.
Arundel Castle
Just ten miles from Chichester, discover almost a thousand years of history at Arundel Castle. A captivating day out with a huge amount original features to explore including the Norman Keep, medieval Gatehouse and the 14th Century Catholic Fitzalan Chapel, there's a huge amount to see, plus action-packed events and the annual floral celebrations each spring as the Tulip Festival and Allium Extravaganza surround the castle with vivid swathes of colour.
Exploring West Sussex this Autumn
15% off at selected museums for half term
Go on a journey through time
Autumn in West Sussex
Leafy walks to foraging, explore the best of this beautiful season
October Half Term
Trips and Halloween treats for all
Join the Sussex Vineyard Harvest
Explore award-winning West Sussex vineyards
The Sussex Tree Trail
Follow this trail to see our most awesome trees
Rolling Stones Itinerary
Follow in the footsteps of the Rolling Stones in Chichester
48 Hours in Petworth
Enjoy a micro-break in Petworth
A student in Chichester
Why Chichester is a great place for students
What's On in West Sussex
View AllBirdsong
Sebastian Faulks's epic tale of love and loss returns to the stage in a brand-new production…
Chichester District Farmers' Market
All stallholders at the Chichester Farmers' Market are required to grow, rear, bake, and/or preserve…
Dinosaurs: Hungry Hatchlings
Join us at the museum to explore new eggciting exhibition Dinosaurs: Hungry Hatchlings…
Little Antlers | Wild Wednesdays
Little Antlers: Wild Wednesdays Join Petworth House & Park for some hands-on fun! Roll…
Lunchtime Concerts at Chichester Cathedral
Each Tuesday at 1.10pm (apart from during school holidays) the Cathedral hosts a lunchtime concert…
Mars | Chichester Cathedral
You’re invited to experience life on Mars with artist Luke Jerram Studio’s latest…
Mini Quilt Competition
Mini Quilt Competition. Calling all textile artists, embroiderers, needleworkers and anyone…
Mulberry Marine Experiences- Marine Ecology Walks
Our beaches are full of marine life just waiting for you to discover them; however, it can be small…
Tai Chi in the Park
Spending time in nature is highly beneficial, especially when combined with some quality training…
The Guildhall - Open Morning
Come along and see inside this beautiful building! Open 10:00am - 11:30am Situated in Priory Park…
Little Antlers | storytelling
It's story time at Petworth Park, with special sessions designed specifically for…
Christmas Treve Art Exhibition
Christmas Treve Art Exhibition Saturday 9th - Sunday 10th November 2024 11-5pm Treve Cottage, River…
Dora Carrington: Beyond Bloomsbury
This will be the first museum exhibition of works by Dora Carrington (1893-1932) in almost 30 years…
Loving the Lichen!
Loving the Lichen! Often overlooked, these mysterious organisms, have their own roles to play in…
Maggi Hambling: Nightingale Night
This exhibition features 14 new paintings by renowned artist Maggi Hambling, inspired by a night…
Midhurst Artisan Makers & Vintage Fair
Shop for decorative homewares, fashion, antiques and artisan products of all kinds in the heart of…
Here You Come Again
For the first time ever, all of Dolly Parton's biggest hits can be experienced together in a…
War Footing
On this 6.5 mile walk we will travel back through 1000+ years of military history. We will be…
West Dean House Tours
Join an exclusive behind the scenes tour of West Dean College and see the incredible Surrealist…
Things to Do in West Sussex
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Explore our Towns, Villages and Coast
Image: Joanna Kaczorowska